[Northampton-GP] Meeting Process (Addendum A)

[Jim Bosman]

This is the amended text that was accepted at the 9/8
meeting.

Jim Bosman


Northampton Green-Rainbow Party Bylaws
Addendum A
Meeting Process


Consensus
We try to make decisions by consensus when possible.  

Consensus depends on each participant's ability to
place the success of the group as their highest
priority.  Consensus does not necessarily mean
unanimity.  The group can proceed with an action
without having total agreement.

To do this, a proposal is made and the facilitator
asks for clarifying questions and friendly amendments
and then tests for consensus. If any participants have
concerns about the proposal, s/he must take
responsibility to work for a compromise or substitute
agreement. Go-arounds or smaller buzz groups may be
used to promote the consensus-seeking process as seen
fit by the facilitator.

The facilitator then asks for agreement on the
alternative proposal. If none can be found, the
facilitator can ask if those with concerns are willing
to "stand aside," or agree to no longer block the
proposal from moving forward.  The facilitator can ask
if the proposal can be tabled until a future meeting
for reworking and future discussion. The facilitator
can also ask for consensus that a vote be taken.  If a
vote is taken, it requires a 2/3 majority to pass.

Structure
Each meeting is planned by a facilitation team. 
Ideally, this is a rotating group of 4 volunteers that
meet 2 weeks before the next meeting to plan the
agenda. A rotation lasts four months. The facilitation
team will secure meeting space, publicize meetings,
draft agendas, and record minutes. The facilitation
team is also responsible for facilitation, minutes,
stacking, and timekeeping.  The facilitation team will
employ techniques for assuring equal opportunity for
all voices to be heard.

The stacker notes participants who want to speak when
they raise their hand.  After a participant has been
noted by the stacker, they can put their hand down and
wait their turn.  Stackers will call on members in the
order that they raised their hand.  However, if an
individual has been talking more than others, the
stacker may choose to call first on someone who has
not spoken.

If a member has a point of information or a point of
process about the proposal being discussed (rather
than an opinion), they can raise one finger and the
stacker will know to call on them first.

Last Modified 9/14/03


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